Visit Ireland - Attractions and Activities: Gardens Gardens of Ireland When it comes right down to it - all of Ireland is a garden. Ireland is one of the most fertile places on earth. The mild climate and long growing season coupled with fertile soil and ample amounts of precipitation culminate to create an ideal growing environment. A trip through the lush countryside is a wonder to the eyes. A spectacular patchwork quilt of stonewalled fields literally unfolds before your eyes. With over 40 shades of green the countryside comes alive and must be personally experienced. The landscape is much too vivid to be reproduced. Some of the loveliest settings in Ireland evolve around its gardens. It is here that peace and tranquility abounds. Many of Irelands gardens were created by some of the most talented experts from around the globe. There are formal gardens, Victorian gardens, Japanese gardens, and decorative vegetable gardens. Here, we have noted only a few well-known gardens of Ireland. Many others exist throughout the country. We recommend that you take time to "stop and smell the roses" during your journey. Ask locally about gardens, which may be visited in the area. Remember - all of Ireland is a garden.

Knappogue Castle & Walled Garden offers a newly restored 19th century walled garden set against the beautiful backdrop of Knappogue Castle. Dating from 1817, the beautiful 1.25-acre garden is now restored to its former splendour. The tall and imposing walls of the walled garden have now been refurnished with climbing roses, grapevines and many clematis varieties. The garden's centerpiece - Bacchus, the Greek God of Wine, reflects the former epicurean philosophy & lifestyle of the mediaeval castle. The garden's main features include the pergola, the tranquil bandstand, and the rockery with fernery, shrubberies and pathways lined with herbaceous borders. The garden supplies the Castle with fresh herbs for daily use in the preparation of the mediaeval banquet, which take place nightly at 7:00PM from April to October. Located near Quin, County Clare 11km east of Ennis off the R469. Open viewing for viewing 7 days a week. The National Botanic Gardens in Dublin offer free admission or guided tours.

The gardens were founded in 1795 by the Royal Dublin Society and taken over by the state in 1878. The gardens feature a rose garden, vegetable garden, an arboretum, and a yew-walk along the River Tolka, herbaceous beds, and various natural habitats. The greenhouses have a multitude of exotic plants. Another great garden in Dublin is the Iveagh Gardens, close to St. Stephen's Green. This garden has been open to the public only a few years. The estate was built during the 18th Century. There are ivy-clad corners, statues, a grotto, landscape gardens, and a maze. A Victorian rosarium has recently been rebuilt. County Wicklow is known as "The Garden of Ireland". It is home to the following magnificent horticultural wonders: Powerscourt Estate, Russborough , Mount Usher Gardens , Killruddery House and Gardens , and Avondale House and Forest Park . From May through July is the Wicklow Garden Festival . During the festival over fifty private gardens are available for public enjoyment. With their maturity and diversity, these gardens offer spectacular grandeur.

Powerscourt House, Gardens and Waterfall is located at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains. Richard Wingfield, the Viscount of Powerscourt, created the gardens in the 1740's. Daniel Robertson further developed the gardens from 1843 to 1975. Powerscourt has the highest waterfall in Ireland. It also offers many garden attractions including formal gardens as well as landscaped walks comprised of over 200 varieties of trees, shrubs, flowers and plants. There is also a garden center, shops and a café on the property. The Japanese Garden is located on the outskirts of Kildare Town in County Kildare. At the early part of the 20th Century, Lord Wavertree, owner of the property, hired a Japanese gardener Eida and his son Minora, to design the gardens. It includes a Zen rock garden, exotic plants, trees and bamboo. Outside the town of Killarney lie Muckross House and Gardens in County Kerry. Muckross House is a magnificent Victorian mansion built in 1843.

Horse drawn carriages can take you from the carpark to the mansion, about 1 mile, through beautiful tree lined pastures. The famed gardens are world-renowned. They are noted for the collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, a rock garden and the many walk ways along the shores of the lake. The Victorian Gardens at Kylemore Abbey are located in Connemara, County Galway. A wealthy Englishman built it for his bride. After her sudden death, the property sat vacant. During WWII, the Benedictine Nuns purchased the estate. This is one of the most picturesque settings in Ireland. You may tour the country house now used as an international girl's school and convent or the gardens and long walk ways through the woods. There is also a beautiful but rather steep climb up the mountain to a statue of Jesus, a smaller version of the one found in Rio de Janeiro. Once on top of the mountain, the panoramic views cannot be beat. The National Trust operates the gardens at Mount Stewart in County Down, Northern Ireland. The gardens encompass 80 acres. It has a variety of different kinds of gardens and a vast array of plants.

The Botanic Gardens in Belfast, County Antrim, were created in1827. The gardens surround a wrought iron and glass greenhouse, built in 1839, which is considered the largest greenhouse in the world. Many of the plants are over 100 years old. The Tropical Ravine House displays a range of tropical plants grown in a sunken glen. Timoleague Castle Gardens, in County Cork, are large walled gardens surrounding the castle ruins. Butterstream, Trim, County Westmeath, is a rather young garden, began in 1970, by Jim Reynolds. Butterstream is comprised of several interlinking garden "rooms" each one more beautiful and unique than the next. Ilnacullin, Garinish Island, Glengarriff, County Cork, is very beautiful and unusual garden on Garnish Island in Bantry Bay. This island garden is warmed by sea but often buffeted by strong prevailing winds. Harold Peto designed this unique isle garden in the Italian Arts and Crafts style. Kilmokea Country Manor and Gardens, County Wexford consists of two distinct gardens. A formal walled garden surrounds the house and a free flowing woodland garden beyond.

It is well known for its wide variety of rare trees and shrubs. Bed and Breakfast accommodations are also available. Ardgillan Castle and Victorian Gardens , located in Balbriggan, County Dublin was built in 1738. It is a fine 18th century manor house surrounded by 80 hectares of gardens and woodlands. A Victorian glass conservatory, a rose garden and walled garden can all be found on the property. Tullynally Castle and Gardens , Castlepollard, County Westmeath is 12 hectacres of gardens and parkland. The gardens encompass two lakes, a grotto, a Chinese garden and many walking paths. Almost 160 acres comprise Belvedere House, Gardens and Park , located in County Westmeath. Walled gardens, follies, 6 km of nature trails and ruins can all be found. There is also a petting park. The house, built in 1740, has recently been restored, and is also open to the public. In 1870, the 5th Marquess of Lansdowne, designed the woodland garden, Derreen Garden , located in County Kerry.

The garden boasts magnificent views of the Caha Mountains and Kilmackillogue Harbour. It contains some of the original rhododendrons, now over 60 feet tall. Located in County Limerick, is Ballynacourty , it comprises several small gardens, one with a laburnum walk, another with a small vegetable garden. There are several varieties of roses through out. The best time to view the roses are the months of May and June. Many of the country houses and castles offering overnight accommodations are beautifully landscaped with formal gardens. Ireland's most popular counties and what to visit (PHOTOS) | IrishCentral.com Ireland's most popular counties and what to visit (PHOTOS) IrishCentral Staff / Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare The following counties are among the most widely visited in Ireland . With their lively arts and culture attractions it's not hard to see why. Here are IrishCentral's guide and recommendations. COUNTY ANTRIM Belfast City (in Irish, Béal Feirste) is the capital of Northern Ireland and is located in County Antrim, one of Ireland's most visited counties.

History and politics have always played a major role in the fabric of Belfast, and perhaps for that reason its citizens are among the most vivid and witty people you'll ever meet. 13 A nighttime view of Belfast City. Unsurprisingly, Belfast is rich in culture, art, music, dance, sports, shopping, attractions and historical sites. City Hall, one of the main seats of power, is located on Donegall Square and dominates the area with its magnificent classical renaissance-style architecture and Italian marble interior. It was completed in 1903. The Linen Hall Library, also located on Donegall Square, was established in 1788. It houses an Irish collection of over 20,000 volumes and a Robert Burns collection. Visit and you'll be keeping company with many noted Irish authors. The Crown Liquor Saloon is the most famous pub in Belfast and, frankly, one of the most beautiful pubs in the world. Featuring Victorian architecture, with the outside covered in thousands of colorful tiles, the inside decor has stained and painted glass, carved oak screens and mahogany furniture. Don't miss it.

The Botanic Gardens, the rose gardens and herbaceous borders were established in 1920 and are unmissable. Two greenhouses dominate the gardens and the Palm House has a conservatory containing tropical plants like coffee, sugar, and banana plants. The Tropical Ravine has a high walkway that provides a great viewpoint. Overlooking the city, Belfast Castle was built in 1870 and was the former home of the Donegall family, who gave the main square in the city center its name. The castle offers a spectacular view of the city. There is also a heritage center, antique shop, and children's play area on the premise. COUNTY CLARE County Clare in the Republic of Ireland is steeped in history, and it offers beautiful seascapes, landscapes, lakes, cliffs, caves and music. Highlights include The Burren (an ancient, perfectly preserved landscape), the Cliffs of Moher (700 foot high cliffs facing the wild Atlantic), and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park (an impressive castle dating from the early Middle Ages). 13 Scientists have uncovered the mystery of the moving rocks on the rugged shoreline of the Aran Islands.

The Burren is over 500 square miles of limestone located in the northwest corner of County Clare. The area is a haven for botanists and ecologists because of the unique flora and rock. The ground surface is a floor of gray rock with long parallel grooves, known as grykes. There is an amazing variety of flora with Arctic, Alpine, and Mediterranean plants growing in spring and summer. For that reason there's also an amazing range of color in the flowers, ferns and mosses. Alwee Caves were discovered in the 1940s. There are caverns, underground waterfalls, stalagmite and stalactite formations and remains of brown bears, which have been extinct in Ireland for thousands of years. The caves are open for guided tours. The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most spectacular sights of The Burren. These majestic cliffs rise more than 700 feet above the windswept Atlantic Ocean and stretch five miles along the west coast of Clare. Composed of shale and sandstone, the Cliffs' ledges make ideal roosting homes for birds.

On a clear day you can see as far as the Mountains of Kerry, Connemara and the Aran Islands. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is one of the most complete and authentic medieval castles in Ireland. This being Ireland it also has a long and bloody history. The castle is a combination of earlier Norman castles and the later Gaelic Tower Houses furnished with a fine collection of medieval furniture, artwork and ornate carvings. A four-course Medieval Banquet and entertainment with performers in traditional costume is offered in the evenings. County Cork is the largest county in Ireland and Cork City is the second-largest city in the Republic. A unique and lively second capital, the distinctive people are as much an attraction as the place itself. 13 Saint Finbarr first built a monastery on the site that would later become Cork City in the year 650. The city grew along the banks of the River Lee at the point where it splits into two channels. Cork City is essentially an island with 16 bridges. The main commercial area is located along St. Patrick Street, Grand Parade, Washington Street, Oliver Plunkett Street and Main Street. The charm and beauty of Cork City revolves around the contrasts the city offers.

There are a multitude of theaters and a variety of arts. There is also a diverse range of excellent restaurants, cafes, and pubs with traditional Irish music. The city also has many unique and quaint shops. Across the Southern Channel are some of the oldest streets in Cork, along with the campus of University College, Cork. The nearby Blarney Castle was built by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster in 1446 and should be at the top of your must visit list. The castle is located on a thousand acres of beautiful woodland, and is partially hidden by trees, some up to a thousand years old. The castle has been witness to the triumph and turmoil of Irish chiefs and enemy armies. Cobh, (pronounced cove) is a picturesque town located on the Great Island, one of three large islands in Cork Harbour. It was the port of departure for many Irish during the Great Hunger from 1844 to 1848 and has the distinction of being central for two of the worst maritime disasters in history. Cobh was the last berth for the Titanic and the nearest port to the Lusitania when it was torpedoed and sunk off the south coast of Ireland.

The Titanic sank on its maiden voyage while crossing the Atlantic after leaving Cobh (then Queenstown). Nearby Kinsale is a fishing and resort town with a picture perfect harbor. The town's narrow streets are lined with colorfully painted buildings and it is widely renowned for its art galleries and gourmet restaurants. Kinsale is also considered the Gourmet Capital of Ireland. Many of the pubs offer traditional Irish music and upscale fare. COUNTY DONEGAL With its sandy beaches, unspoiled boglands and friendly communities, County Donegal is a leading destination for many travelers. One of the county treasures is Glenveagh National Park, the only official national park anywhere in the Province of Ulster. The park is a huge nature reserve with spectacular scenery of mountains, raised boglands, lakes and woodlands. At its heart is Glenveagh Castle, a beautiful late Victorian "folly" that was originally built as a summer residence. 13 Donegal's rugged landscape lends itself to active sports like climbing, hillwalking, scuba-diving, surfing and kite-flying. Many people travel to Donegal for the superb golf links — long sandy beaches and extensive dune systems are a feature of the county, and many golf courses have been developed.

Golf is a very popular sport within the county, including world class golf courses such as Ballyliffin (Glashedy), Ballyliffin (Old), both of whch are located in the Inishowen peninsula. Other courses to note are Murvagh and Rosapenna. The Donegal Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking district) also attracts young people to County Donegal each year during the school summer holidays. The three week long summer Gaeltacht courses give young Irish people from other parts of the country a chance to learn the Irish language and traditional Irish cultural traditions that are still prevalent in parts of Donegal. Dublin is the capital of the Republic of Ireland and is divided by the River Liffey. The Royal Canal and the Grand Canal provide connections between the port area and the northern and southern branches of the River Shannon. 13 Ha'penny Bridge in Dublin: Tips and hints for moving to Ireland with Irish citizenship or without. Dublin is a city steeped in history and boasts of having the oldest pub in Ireland, The Brazen Head, and the oldest university, Trinity College. It is a center of art and culture and the largest truly cosmopolitan city in Ireland.

O'Connell Street is the main thoroughfare and the widest street in Europe. At the south end, sits a huge monument of Daniel O'Connell, the Irish patriot. The General Post Office (GPO) is also located on O'Connell Street and was the headquarters for the Irish Republican Brotherhood, and the provisional government of Ireland in the 1916 Easter Rising. The Dublin Writers Museum is a restored 18th century mansion located at the north end of Parnell Square. The museum houses manuscripts and first editions of the works of some of Ireland's best writers, including: Behan, Joyce, Shaw, Swift, Wilde, and Yeats. It is also home to an impressive collection of painting, photographs, and memorabilia of the various writers. The Temple Bar Area is the cultural quarter of Dublin. This is a historical and eclectic area filled with art, theater, music, pubs, cafes, and the highest concentration of truly upscale restaurants. There's also the Market in Meeting House Square serving organic foods, unique shops, book and music stores. It also plays host to many open-air events. Trinity College is one of the oldest centers of learning, dating back to the 16th century.

The library is home to the world renowned Book of Kells, a Latin text of the four gospels, with meticulous artwork around the borders, created in the ninth century. The National Museum of Archaeology and History is located on Kildare Street. This branch houses artifacts from 2000 B.C. through the 20th century and includes the National Treasury with many archaeological treasures of Celtic and Medieval art, such as the Ardagh Chalice and Tara Brooch. Christchurch Cathedral is Dublin's oldest place of Christian worship. The Christian Norse, King Sitric, founded it in 1038. Part of the structure goes back to the 12th century. It is presently an Anglican Church. St. Patrick's Cathedral is the National Cathedral for the Anglican Church. Originally built in the 12th century, it is the burial site of Jonathan Swift, a former Dean and author of Gulliver's Travels. Galway City is known as the City of Tribes after 14 merchant families who controlled and managed the city in medieval times and is situated along the River Corrib at the mouth of Galway Bay.

13 Today, the city is a growing and thriving university city that offers the best theater in the country. There is also a vibrant nightlife and music can be found everywhere. During the summer, Galway offers many festivals. Connemara, known for its wild beauty, is located north of Galway City, at the western tip of the county. It is one of the most unspoiled regions of Ireland and a vibrant Irish-speaking area. The Aran Islands, also a Irish-speaking area, are located 30 miles off the Irish coast. The islands themselves consist of three islands, Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer. Inis Móir, meaning Big Island, is eight miles long and two miles wide, and has a population of 900. The fort of Dun Aengus is built on the edge of a sheer southern cliff with a defense forest of sharp stone spikes. Inishmaan means Middle Island. It is three miles wide and two miles long, with fields bordered by high dry stonewalls, and marked by vast sheets of limestone rock. The island peaks at 300 feet and a series of giant terraces slope down to Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

The island has a Gaelic speaking population. Inisheer is known as the Little Island. It is 27 miles from Galway and covers 1,400 acres. It has a population of about 300. This island is an outcrop of the Burren landscape, consisting of bare limestone that is used for the many cottages, stonewalls, roads, and pathways around the island. The Gaelic-speaking island is a haven for birdwatchers and those interested in flora and fauna. COUNTY KERRY 13 The locals know County Kerry as The Kingdom, a reference to the contrasts you'll see in its astounding scenery, which suggest Ireland in miniature. The climate in Kerry is more unique than other places in Ireland, thanks to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, and it's actually possible to swim here year round. Kerry has preserved its heritage in many ways. The oak woods at Derrycunnihy and Tomies, for example, are the last of Ireland's primeval forests. There are many small villages that are still Gaelic-speaking too, adding to the character of the county.

Dingle Town is a fishing village that offers a wonderful selection of shops, restaurants and pubs with traditional music. The Ring of Kerry is located on the Peninsula of Iveragh. It lies between Dingle Bay and The Kenmare River. It is 110 miles of gorgeous coastal and mountain scenery, enveloping the towns of Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Caherciveen, Waterville, Sneem, Kenmare and Killarney. Each town has its own personality. The coastal drive is one of the most spectacular sites in all of Ireland. COUNTY KILKENNY 13 Kilkenny is a county looked on enviously by other counties, and not only because of the county's incredible track record in the ancient Irish game of hurling. Kilkenny is a county filled with enchantment and delight. From the spectacular scenery of the Nore and Barrow river valleys to the cultured beauty of Kilkenny City, the county provides the perfect setting for whatever holiday you desire.

Known through history as the Marble City because of its distinctive indigenous jet-black marble, Kilkenny City offers a curious, yet undeniably attractive mix of perfectly preserved old buildings and the vibrancy of a modern city which has made festivals like the Kilkenny Cat Laughs comedy festival, an event with international recognition. St Canice's Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle are extremely important monuments and quality tours are available. There are plenty of other things to see inside and outside the city and throughout Kilkenny's rural hinterland. Some of Ireland's finest craft studios are to be found in Kilkenny, from pottery to gold and silver-smithing. The experience of seeing a master craftsperson is not one to be missed. For more physically active tourists, Kilkenny has no limit to the range of choices available. The Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course at Mount Juliet is one of the finest in the state. Arguably the best river wild trout fishing is to be found near Durrow on the River Nore. The county has numerous ancient sites including Iron Age fortifications, inscribed stones and crosses, castles, and abbeys. The Dunmore Caves in Ballyfoyle are important both for historical and environmental reasons.

The site of a massacre of the Irish by Viking raiders in 928, and according to legend, the place where The Lord of the Mice was slain Dunmore is best known these days for the wondrous sight of stalagmites of huge size dominating the chambers. COUNTY MEATH 13 County Meath has traditionally been known as the Royal County, being the seat of the ancient Kings of Ireland at Tara. In the Boyne Valley of County Meath are some of Ireland's most important archaeological monuments, including the Megalithic Passage Tombs of Newgrange, Knowth, Dowth, Fourknocks, Loughcrew and Tara. Newgrange is the most famous of these prehistoric monuments. It was originally built around 3,100 B.C. and accidentally discovered in the 17th century. COUNTY OFFALY 13 The heart of the Midlands, County Offaly offers bogs, meadowlands, and undiscovered pastures. Clonmacnoise, located at Shannonbridge on the banks of the River Shannon, is one of the most famous monastic sites. Begun as an isolated monastery founded by St. Ciaran in 545 A.D.

it is to this day an ecclesiastical site, with ruins of a cathedral, eight churches, and three high crosses. Irish chieftains, Vikings and Anglo-Normans plundered Clonmacnoise. Cromwell's forces devastated it beyond restoration. There are guided tours during the summer months; a video presentation at the Visitor Center, and an informative five-mile trail tour of the Blackwater. Located in the center of the historic province of Ulster, County Tyrone is blessed with an array of places to visit. The Ulster American Folk Park, for example, is located three miles north of Omagh. 13 Archaeological stone circles in Tyrone The Folk Park is an open-air living history museum that explores Ulster's links to the many famous Americans who trace their ancestry to the North of Ireland. The park is comprised of an indoor gallery with information on the causes and patterns of immigration. Outside are a variety of reconstructed buildings of 18th and 19th century Ireland. Throughout the park are costumed guides and craftsmen that add to the authenticity. Also on site is the Centre for Emigration Studies, an extensive research library. Plan at least half a day to explore the park.

COUNTY WICKLOW 13 County Wicklow is often referred to as the Garden of Ireland, due to its breathtaking scenery and located just south of Dublin it makes for a wonderful day trip or overnight stay away from the 'big smoke.' Glendalough is a 6th century monastic site that was founded by St. Kevin. Nestled into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains it offers a truly spectacular setting, featuring a stone tower that stands 110 feet tall. There is a visitor center and guided tours are available. Wicklow National Park is an unspoiled natural wonder with nearly 50,000 acres of raw beauty. A drive through the Wicklow Gap from Glendalough to Hollywood is one of jaw dropping beauty. Powerscourt is a beautiful upscale estate with some of the finest gardens in Europe. * Originally published in 2013.

Ireland Gardens - Gardens of Ireland - Ten of the best Gardens in Ireland Kilmokea Country Manor Campile, Co Wexford Mark and Emma Hewlett’s peaceful and relaxing late Georgian country house nestles above an estuary where the rivers Barrow and Nore meet, and is set in seven acres of Heritage Gardens with peacocks strutting around the house. Formal walled gardens feature topiary and the ‘lower garden’, which was started in 1947, is now home to over 130 species of rare and tender trees and shrubs. The house is open to guests and is elegantly and comfortably furnished, with a drawing room overlooking the Italian Loggia, an honesty library bar, and dinner available by reservation in the main dining room. Cashel House Hotel Cashel Co Galway Standing at the head of Cashel Bay, Dermot and Kay McEvilly’s gracious property has been run as an hotel since 1968 - comfort abounds here, even luxury, yet it’s tempered by common sense, a love of gardening and the genuine sense of hospitality that ensures each guest will benefit as much as possible from their stay.

The award-winning gardens, which run down to their own little private beach, contribute greatly to the atmosphere, and the accommodation includes especially comfortable ground floor garden suites, which are also suitable for less able guests. Ballynahinch Castle Hotel Recess, Co Galway This crenellated Victorian mansion is renowned as a fishing hotel and enjoys a most romantic position in 450 acres of ancient woodland on the banks of the Ballynahinch River. It is also home to one of Connemara’s oldest gardens - set out among mature trees and shrubs, on many levels, the extensive landscaped gardens here have long been a point of pride and are open to the public every day throughout the season (there is a small charge, donated to local charities). A stay here is always a restorative treat and, after a restful night’s sleep, a Ballynahinch breakfast will give the best possible start to a day visiting the many nearby gardens.

Carrig Country House & Restaurant Caragh Lake, Co Kerry At the heart of Frank and Mary Slattery's sensitively extended Victorian house lies a hunting lodge once owned by Lord Brocket - and he chose well, as it is very attractive and handsomely set in fine gardens with the lake and mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. The house is welcoming and well-maintained, with friendly staff (Frank himself carries the luggage to your room) and a very relaxed atmosphere, notably in a series of sitting rooms where you can chat beside the fire or have a drink before dinner. The extensive gardens are of great interest and a laminated map is available, naming the various areas - Waterfall Garden, Rock Walk etc. Ballymaloe Cookery School Shanagarry, Co Cork The gardens at Ballymaloe are delicious - traditional with an original twist, just like Darina Allen's recipes, and a myrtle in honour of Myrtle Allen has pride of place in the centre of the garden. Edible flowers like marigolds and nasturtiums are used in salads or for garnishes in the restaurant, while leggy sunflowers and artichokes add to the colourful profusion.

There is always a new scheme: an Irish apple meadow, an arboretum and a rose garden are all part of the evolving scheme of things Darina Allen. Kilgraney House Bagenalstown, Co Carlow In a lovely situation overlooking the Barrow Valley, Bryan Leech and Martin Marley's charming late Georgian country house - which (encouragingly) takes its name from the Irish 'cill gre?ne', meaning 'sunny hill or wood' - is well-placed for garden visits in a wide area. And, set in extensive wooded grounds with gardens that are open to the public by appointment, it is also a very pleasing destination itself; among many delights. there are interconnecting herb gardens, a tea walk, a monastic garden - and a productive kitchen garden that provides much for Bryan to transform into delicious dinners (non residents welcome by reservation). Ballyvolane House near Fermoy, Co Cork The Greene family’s gracious mansion is surrounded by its own farmland, magnificent wooded grounds, a recently restored trout lake and beautiful mature gardens, all carefully managed and well maintained.

Garden lovers will find a stay here especially rewarding: an information leaflet detailing the garden and walks is available to guests, and a comprehensive general information directory for guests is exceptionally well-researched - a model of its kind. Other great gardens, including Lismore Castle are nearby and the standards of hospitality, comfort and food for which this lovely house is renowned make it an excellent choice for a peaceful and very relaxing break. Kylemore Abbey Letterfrack, Co Galway With a loughside setting under the wooded lee of the Twelve Bens in Connemara, Kylemore looks for all the world like a moody Victorian painting, and the 19th century castle has a story to match. The 6 acre walled gardens, which originally took three years to complete, have now been restored with help from the Great Gardens Restoration Programme, the European Regional Development Fund and work by FAS. With woodland walks, the dramatic backdrop of Diamond Hill, a miniature Gothic cathedral, a shop and museum, there is plenty for the family to see and do – and, despite hefty admission charges, it can be very busy in summer.

Powerscourt House & Gardens Enniskerry, Co Wicklow Justly famed for the glory of its setting and the grandeur of its scale, Powerscourt is Ireland's most visited garden. Parts of the plan date back to the 1740s when Richard Cassel, also architect of Leinster House, designed a series of terraces and a circular pool as a suitably imposing foil to the Palladian mansion he had created for Viscount Powerscourt. The entrance to the garden is now through the house, which was gutted by fire in 1974. Most of the building now houses an interesting shopping complex and there are temptations a-plenty at the garden centre too; lunch at Avoca’s Terrace Restaurant is recommended - altogether a very satisfying place for a day out. Anna’s House Comber, Co Down Anna and Ken Johnson’s delightful house near Strangford Lough looks over their own ten-acre wildfowl lake to the rolling north Down countryside, and not only does it make a comfortable base for visits to major County Down gardens - three National Trust gardens are nearby, including Mount Stewart - but they have a wonderful garden of their own as well.

There is a cosy sitting room for guests’ use and accommodation is quite simple and cottagey - who could fail to be charmed by real Irish linen on the beds, and uninterrupted rural views, especially when two of these pretty rooms have seating areas and their own balconies? ----- The "ten of the best" above are samples from one of the books in the Georgina Campbell’s Ireland series, the critically acclaimed Ireland... for Garden Lovers (Epicure press, EUR20), which is available to purchase online here or in all good bookshops. Co-authored by well-known journalist and garden writer, Marianne Heron, it combines a guide to the most delightful places for garden lovers to stay and eat, with one to the top gardens of Ireland. Planned equally for the serious garden visitor and city dwellers simply longing for space and serenity, this full colour guide will be a handy reference for planning holidays and short breaks in the most delightful surroundings. Counties in Ireland: From Mayo to Wicklow  an introduction ► Irish land divisions – so crucial to Irish genealogy Mayo In Irish, the county is called Maigh Eo, meaning the Plain of Yews.

It is in Connaught province, is the third largest of the counties in Ireland, and is a wild mountainous region with a long Atlantic coastline. As a result of its topography it is known as both the Heather County and the Maritime County. Because it suffered so dreadfully during the Great Hunger, the phrase "Mayo! God help us!" became a fixture and is still used, albeit usually in an ironic context these days. Its county town is Castlebar but its largest town is Ballina. The only other town of any size is Westport. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Mayo include Walsh, Gallagher, Kelly, Malley, Moran, Duffy, McHale, Gibbons, Joyce, Connor, Conway, Higgins and Murphy. Griffith's Valuation was carried out in 1856-7. Meath In Irish, the county is called Mí, a simple word for an uncomplicated meaning of Middle (province). It is in Leinster province and is known as the Royal County because the Hill of Tara, home of the legendary High Kings of Ireland, is within its boundaries.

Meath was the scene of one of Ireland's most fateful battles: the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. Today it is home to many Dublin commuters and its principal towns are Navan, Trim and Kells. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Meath include Reilly, Smith, Lynch, Brady, Farrell, Farrelly and Kelly. Richard Griffith carried out his Valuation survey in Meath in 1855. Monaghan In Irish, the county is called Muineacháin, meaning a Place of little hills. The name is a perfect description for this sparsely populated region and has earned Monaghan the nickname of Drumlin County. It is one of the three counties of Ulster province to remain within the Republic of Ireland. The county town of Monaghan developed in the 18th century thanks to the Irish linen industry and its prosperity is still apparent in the town's rich legacy of Regency style buildings. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Monagahn include Duffy, Connolly, McMahon, McKenna, Hughes, Murphy and McCabe.

Griffith's Valuation was carried out in 1858-60. Offaly In Irish, the county is called Ua Fáilghe, meaning the Descendants of the Tribe of Failghe. It is in Leinster province and used to be known as King's County. Today's unofficial nickname is the Faithful County, since the word appears on its crest of arms. Hornbeam cloister at Birr Castle Most of the county is flat and bogland. Despite its unexceptional landscape it has one of Ireland's most important Christian sites, Clonmacnois, and what many believe to be the country's most perfect Georgian town: Birr. Offaly's main town is Tullamore. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Offaly include Kelly, Dunne, Daly, Egan, Molloy, Mooney and Carroll. The county was surveyed for Griffith's Valuation in 1854. Roscommon In Irish, the county is called Ros Comán, meaning Saint Coman's wood. It is in the Irish province of Connaught.

Locals are called Rossies or (light-heartedlly) as Sheep Stealers, a term which refers to the common crimes committed by many of those transported to Australia. Two medieval ruins are all that remain of a colossal 13th century castle and an Abbey in the county town of Roscommon but the busiest visitor attraction in the county is Strokestown Park House and its Irish Famine Museum. Other towns include Boyle and Castlerea. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Roscommon include Kelly, McDermott, Beirne, Regan, Flanagan, Connor, McDonagh, Quinn, Murray, Brennan and Higgins. Griffith's Valuation was carried out in 1857-8. Sligo In Irish, the county is called Sligeach, meaning Shelly river. It is in the province of Connaught and contains the largeest concentration of megalithic monuments on the island, including Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, one of Europe's most important prehistoric sites. The county town of Sligo has many connections with Ireland's greatest poets, W B Yeats. Its only other town of any size is Tobercurry.

According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Sligo include Brennan, McLoughlin, Gallagher, Kelly, Harte, McGowan, Walsh and Kennedy. Griffith's Valuation was carried out in 1858. Tipperary The Rock of Cashel In Irish, the county is called Tiobraid Arainn, meaning the Well of Ara. It is in Munster province and, for administrative purposes is split into North and South Ridings. This is because it is the largest of the counties in Ireland's interior. It is also famous for having the highest count of cattle. With 624,388 beasts (2006), it has four times more cattle than people  the highest ratio of any of the counties in Ireland. Its principal towns are Carrick on Suir, Clonmel (the county town), Cahir and Tipperary itself. The latter is an important and traditional dairy farming town. Also within this county is the Rock of Cashel, said to have been created by the Devil.

According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Tipperary include Ryan, Maher, O'Brien, Kennedy, Dwyer, Hogan, Hayes, Gleeson, McGrath, Walsh, Kelly and Lonergan. Tipperary was one of the first counties in Ireland to be surveyed for Griffith's Valuation, in 1850-51. Tyrone In Irish, the county is called Tír Eoghain, meaning the Territory of Eoghan. It has the lowest population of the Ulster province counties within Northern Ireland (UK) and is primarily a farming region. It is known as O'Neill County in referrence to the medieval family who once controlled the area. Tyrone has fabulous hill and forest scenery and is home to the Ulster American Folk Park which celebrates the strong links between Ulster and North America. Its county capital is Omagh but Strabane and Cookstown are also reasonable size communities. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Tyrone include Quinn, Mullan, Kelly, Donnelly, Gallagher, McKenna, Campbell and Hughes.

Griffith's Valuation was carried out in 1851. Waterford Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre In Irish, the county is called Port Lairge, from the Viking name Vadrefiord. It is in Munster province and is is one of the sunny coastal counties in Ireland's south. As such, it is a popular destination for holidays in Ireland. It's a prosperous place with wonderfully varied scenery and its name is famously linked with the crystal glass made in the county town. It is even referred to as the Crystal County. An alternative moniker is the Decies County due to its historical links with the Celt tribe of that name. In 1831, co. Waterford had a population of 176,898 (87 people per km2) and that density was repeated in 2002. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Waterford include Power, Walsh, O'Brien, Murphy, Ryan, McGrath, Foley, Flynn, Morrissey and Kelly. Waterford was surveyed by Richard Griffith for his Valuation in 1848-51, making it the second county to be valued after Dublin.

Westmeath In Irish, the county is called Iarmhí, meaning Western middle province. At its heart is the Hill of Uisneach which was believed to mark the spot where the ancient Irish provinces converged. Westmeath is now in Leinster province. Its main settlements are the former garrison town of Mullingar and the strategically important Athlone which straddles the River Shannon just before it flows into Lough Ree. An uninhabited island in the Lough is said to be the geographical centre of Ireland. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Westmeath include Lynch, Farrell, Reilly, Daly, Murray and Duffy. Griffith's Valuation was carried out in 1854. Wexford In Irish, the county is called Loch Garman, but the Viking name of the district was Weis fiord, meaning harbour of the mudflats. That may not sound too inviting, but Wexford is the island's most south-easterly county and it has some gloriously sandy beaches. This makes it a popular destination for an Irish holiday, especially for families with young children.

In land area, it is the largest of the counties in Ireland's Leinster province but it is not densely populated. In 2002, population density was 50 persons per square kilometre. Some 160 years earlier, in 1831, that figure was 86 persons/km2. Because it is sunnier and drier than all other counties in Ireland, its inhabitants are nicknamed the Strawberry Pickers. An alternative, and possibly more common, nickname is Yellowbellies. The county is also known as the Model County due to its progressive farming methods and model farms. Enniscorthy, New Ross and Wexford are its main centres. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Wexford include Murphy, Doyle, Walsh, Bryne, Cullen, Kavanagh, Brien, Roche, Kelly, Nolan, Redmond and Connor. The county was surveyed for Griffith's Valuation in 1853. Powerscourt House and Gardens, Wicklow Wicklow In Irish, the county is called Cill Mhantáin, from the Viking name Viking Gelo.

It is in Leinster province and is famous for the Wicklow Mountains and the hauntingly beautiful Glendalough. Because goats roam the mountain areas, people from Wicklow are known as Goat Suckers. Rather more pleasantly, the county itself is referred to as the Garden of Ireland. It was the last of the counties in Ireland to be 'shired', in 1606. Its main towns are Wicklow, Arklow and Bray. According to 1890 records, the most common surnames associated with County Wicklow include Byrne, Doyle, Murphy, Kelly, Kavanagh, Nolan, Brien, Kehoe, Lawlor, Toole and Dunne. Griffith's Valuation was carried out in 1852-3.

Question: Which Irish county is known as The Garden of Ireland
Answer: Wicklow